Synchronized Ball Collection Apparatus with Player Interaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic ball collection systems for sports, such as tennis and golf, lack efficient interaction with players, resulting in delayed delivery and restraints on game dynamics due to inadequate response times and lack of player interaction capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising at least two synchronized collection apparatuses with image acquisition and control means for automatic detection and collection of spherical game elements, capable of delivering the ball to a player upon request through vocal, gestural, or wireless commands, utilizing cameras and electronic systems for real-time tracking and interaction, including optional rotating head cameras for player movement tracking and intercommunication between apparatuses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a single collection apparatus is used, then the system is simpler and easier to operate, but the delivery speed and response time to player requests are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the ball collection and delivery function into multiple independent apparatuses (at least two collection apparatuses). Each apparatus can independently detect, collect, and deliver balls, allowing parallel operation to increase overall delivery speed while maintaining individual apparatus simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple collection apparatuses are merged into a coordinated system with shared control means and intercommunication capabilities. The control means integrates information from multiple apparatuses and coordinates their actions to deliver balls efficiently, combining the advantages of multiple units while maintaining system-level optimization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional ball collection systems are used, then the system structure is simpler, but the interaction with players is limited and game dynamics are restrained
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control means receives information from image acquisition means about ball positions and player requests, processes this information, and sends control commands to collection apparatuses. This closed-loop feedback enables real-time interaction with players and adaptive response to game dynamics.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection apparatuses are equipped with autonomous capabilities including image acquisition means for detecting balls, control means for processing information and making decisions, and communication means for receiving player requests. This self-service capability allows the system to interact with players and respond to requests without external intervention, enhancing adaptability.
3Loss of time
If ball detection and collection starts after ball launch, then the system response is delayed, but starting earlier requires more complex prediction mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The image acquisition means continuously monitors the playing area before balls are launched, and the control means processes images to detect ball positions and predict trajectories in advance. This preliminary detection and prediction allows the collection apparatuses to be positioned optimally before balls land, reducing response time without requiring complex post-launch reaction mechanisms.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The system includes at least two collection apparatuses (14) provided to operate in a complementary and/or synchronized way so as to perform collection and delivery tasks, each of said apparatuses (14) being provided to be able to perform the delivery of a collected spherical element such as a ball (11) and in particular a tennis ball, to a player (13), in response to a request from him, said at least two apparatuses (14) operating in a complementary and/or synchronized way during said collection and delivery tasks. The apparatus comprises interaction means with a player (13) to perform a controlled delivery of the collected spherical element to the player (13), or to go to find a determined spherical object, in response to a command given by said player (13), by means of a vocal command, gestural command, an electronic device or a combination of said means.